Aerobic martial art and boxing fitness classes are very popular right now. Can I gain the same benefits as learning a classical martial art?
No. These fitness classes which take boxing or martial art moves and put them to music are essentially aerobic classes with a primary focus appeal to the masses. Combined with effective marketing and promotion, these classes have grown in popularity, promising a lot of results for little effort. Martial arts adapt very easily into the aerobic workout routine. At best, doing ‘martial’ type moves might develop a certain level of increased confidence, which may lead one to take the next step into trying a real martial arts program. In reality, the classes are an excellent way to improve aerobic fitness and cardiovascular health. Improving basic muscle tone and weight loss are a product of any exercise done at an aerobic level. Proper martial arts training naturally includes these health benefits, but aerobics and fitness boxing do not include real martial arts benefits. These courses do not develop martial skills or self-defense knowledge anymore than playing a video game teaches one how
